S.C. R. Magis. Ct. 5

(a) A suit is commenced by filing with the magistrates court a short and plain written statement of the

facts showing what the plaintiff claims and why the claim is made. Provided, however, upon a personal

appearance, the plaintiff may make an oral statement which shall be reduced to writing. The court or

court personnel shall assist the plaintiff in reducing the statement to writing if the court determines

assistance is required. This statement shall be called a complaint. A plaintiff may combine as many

claims as the plaintiff has against a defendant in one case and may sue more than one defendant in

one case if the claim involves all of the defendants.

(b) The plaintiff shall state on the complaint the address to which the court may mail notices and

correspondence concerning the case. If the plaintiff's mailing address changes, the plaintiff must

advise the court in writing. The court may notify the plaintiff of all proceedings incident to the case by

mailing the notice by regular mail to the plaintiff at the address provided.

(c) A plaintiff who desires to file an action without costs shall file a motion for leave to proceed in

forma pauperis, together with the complaint proposed to be filed and an affidavit showing the

plaintiff's inability to pay the fee required to file the action. If the motion is granted, the plaintiff may

proceed without further application and file the complaint in the court without payment of filing fees.